A Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) trained in ostomy care can help you adjust to your ostomy (a surgically constructed opening from the bladder or bowel to the outside of the body). You can meet with a CNS Ostomy Nurse before your surgery. The nurse will give you information and answer your questions about living with an ostomy.
After your surgery, the nurse will teach you how to manage your ostomy and ostomy pouching system. You can call a CNS Ostomy Nurse after you leave the hospital if you need advice or have any concerns about your ostomy. Also, a stoma clinic is available by appointment if you have difficulties with your pouching system.
CNS Ostomy Nurses can give you practical help, advice and education about:
- Managing an ostomy in everyday life
- Caring for your ostomy pouching system
- Problem-solving if leakage occurs
- Ostomy support groups
- Living a full and active life
